Alfred James Rogers, affectionately known as Pee Wee Ellis, was a renowned American saxophonist, composer, and arranger, whose diminutive stature only added to his endearing persona.
Born on April 21, 1941, Pee Wee Ellis's career in music was deeply rooted in the realm of jazz, a genre that would serve as the foundation for his impressive body of work.
During the 1960s, Ellis had the distinction of being a member of James Brown's esteemed band, where he made significant contributions to the legendary musician's recordings, co-writing several hit songs that would go on to become an integral part of music history.
Notable among these collaborations were the iconic tracks "Cold Sweat" and "Say It Loud – I'm Black and I'm Proud", which would cement Ellis's status as a master arranger and composer.
In addition to his work with James Brown, Pee Wee Ellis also had the privilege of working alongside the talented Van Morrison, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and accomplished musician.
Throughout his illustrious career, Pee Wee Ellis left an indelible mark on the music world, leaving behind a legacy that would continue to inspire and influence generations of musicians to come.
